Laura May Loper, 63, of Meadville passed away on February 28, 2023. Laurie was born in Meadville on July 12, 1959, daughter of the late Leo Alvin Smith and Leona Maude Rodgers Smith. She graduated from Maplewood High School with the class of 1977. For forty years she was a nurse’s aide, practicing thirty-four years at the Crawford County Care Center where she was honored by winning the nurse’s aide of the year award. While working there, she served as the matron of honor in two weddings held by residents. On November 20, 1982, she married Richard Ronald Loper. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and member of the Saegertown American Legion Post 205. She loved her dog, Buster and truly leaves a legacy of love.
She was preceded in death by two daughters, Christie Lynn and Lisa Marie; husband Richard Loper in 2015; and stepfather, Pete Teed.
Survivors include mother, Leona “Red” Smith of Cambridge Springs; daughter, Sarah Rose Humes and her husband, David of Fairview; grandson, Micah Humes; granddaughter, Lydia Humes; companion, Allen “Sonny” Brady; brother, Terry Smith and his son, Joshua; best friend, Darlene Snyder and countless others.
Friends may call at Van Matre Funeral Home, Cambridge Springs on Saturday, March 4, from 10 am until time of service at 11. Rev. Steven Prinz pastor of First Baptist Church in Cambridge Springs will officiate. Interment will follow at Kingsley Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family.
Laura took care of my sister Gayle Gerritsen @ the C.C.C.C. for years. She was more than a caregiver, she was her friend. She went way above and beyond any duties expected of her. She treated her more like a family member than anything else. I KNOW my sister’s life’s happiness was increased by 10 fold simply because of Laura’s caring heart and nature. I’m sure Gayle wasn’t the only one to receive so much of Laura’s extremely good, loving, caring graces. Heaven has gained a very special angel today — and we were very blessed and honored to have been a witness to her life. Enjoy your rest in Jesus arms — you have earned it. My condolences to her family, but your left with Memories of one very special woman.🙏🙏
Dear Laura’s Family,
I worked with Laura for many years at the CCCC. I loved it when she worked the dementia unit that I was in charge of. When she was on it, there were less behaviors and stressed out residents. The residents all over the building did love her. She was a kind and compassionate soul. Too few of them in this world. Now there are less of them but heaven gained an angel. Was sorry to hear of her passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.